- August 24, 2025
Chana Dal Halwa Recipe – A Rich and Traditional Indian Sweet
Indian festivals and celebrations are incomplete without sweets, and one such royal delicacy is the Chana Dal Halwa Recipe. This rich, aromatic, and delicious sweet dish is a popular choice during Diwali, Navratri, and Eid celebrations. Made with split Bengal gram (chana dal), pure desi ghee, sugar, and milk, this halwa has a melt-in-the-mouth texture that makes it irresistible.
If you have ever wondered how to make chana dal halwa at home, this step-by-step guide will help you prepare this traditional sweet easily. Whether you are looking for an easy chana dal halwa, halwai style chana dal halwa, or a quick chana dal halwa recipe, this blog will cover everything you need.
About Chana Dal Halwa
Chana dal halwa is an authentic Indian dessert known for its rich flavor and smooth texture. Unlike moong dal halwa vs chana dal halwa, which is slightly nuttier and lighter, the chana dal version is creamier, more filling, and often made with khoya (mawa) for added richness. This sweet dish is commonly served during Diwali sweets platter, festive occasions, and weddings.
In some regions, people also make chana dal halwa in cooker for convenience, while others prefer the traditional slow-cooked method for a more authentic taste.
Ingredients for Chana Dal Halwa
To prepare traditional chana dal halwa recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
1 cup chana dal (Bengal gram)
2 cups milk
¾ cup sugar
½ cup desi ghee
½ cup khoya (optional, for richness)
¼ teaspoon cardamom powder
8-10 cashews
8-10 almonds
8-10 pistachios
Few strands of saffron (optional)
This is a chana dal halwa with ghee, milk, and dry fruits, but you can also try variations like chana dal halwa without khoya, low sugar chana dal halwa, or even healthy chana dal halwa recipe for modern diets.

Step-by-Step Method: How to Make Chana Dal Halwa
If you are looking for chana dal halwa step by step recipe, follow these instructions:
Step 1: Soak the Dal
Wash and soak 1 cup of chana dal in enough water for at least 3–4 hours. This helps soften the dal and makes it easier to grind.
Step 2: Cook the Dal
Drain the water and pressure cook the soaked dal with 2 cups milk until it turns soft but not mushy. This is the base of your chana dal halwa with milk.
Step 3: Grind into Paste
Once cooled, grind the cooked dal into a coarse paste. For authentic chana dal halwa recipe, avoid making it too smooth—some grainy texture gives the halwa its richness.
Step 4: Roast in Ghee
Heat ½ cup ghee in a heavy pan. Add the dal paste and roast on medium flame until it turns golden brown and leaves a nutty aroma. This step is crucial for that halwai style chana dal halwa.
Step 5: Add Sugar & Flavors
Add ¾ cup sugar and mix well. The mixture will loosen up as sugar melts. Stir continuously until the halwa thickens. Add cardamom powder and optional saffron strands.
Step 6: Enrich with Khoya & Dry Fruits
Now add ½ cup khoya (optional) and mix until blended well. Garnish with cashews, almonds, and pistachios roasted in ghee.

Step 7: Serve Hot
Your rich chana dal halwa Indian dessert is ready. Serve warm as a festive treat or make it in advance for chana dal halwa mithai gifting.

Variations of Chana Dal Halwa
There are multiple ways to enjoy this Indian sweet dish:
Chana Dal Halwa with Khoya – Rich and creamy, perfect for weddings.
Chana Dal Halwa Without Khoya – Light and simple for home celebrations.
Chana Dal Halwa with Condensed Milk – Quick version for busy days.
Chana Dal Halwa in Cooker – Saves time, great for beginners.
Gluten Free Chana Dal Halwa – Naturally gluten-free, suitable for everyone.
Chana Dal Halwa for Fasting – Make with jaggery instead of sugar for vrat.
Low Sugar Chana Dal Halwa – A healthier option for diet-conscious people.
Halwai Style Chana Dal Halwa – Rich, heavy, and indulgent with lots of ghee.
Chana Dal Halwa Pudding Style – Creamier, softer, served in bowls with cream.
Chana Dal Halwa for Festivals
Chana Dal Halwa for Diwali – A must-have festive sweet along with ladoos and barfi.
Eid Special Chana Dal Halwa – Often prepared for guests and loved as a dessert.
Navratri Chana Dal Halwa – Made as prasad, sometimes sweetened with jaggery.
Chana Dal Halwa for Weddings – Served as a rich dessert in traditional feasts.
This festive chana dal halwa sweet dish is also ideal for gifting in beautifully packed boxes.
Nutrition Facts of Chana Dal Halwa
Per serving (100g approx.):
Calories – 280
Carbohydrates – 40g
Protein – 8g
Fat – 10g
Fiber – 5g
Though high in calories, this halwa provides energy and is considered a natural protein-rich Indian dessert. For those who prefer healthier options, try the healthy chana dal halwa with less ghee and jaggery.
Tips for Perfect Chana Dal Halwa
Always soak the dal well to get the right texture.
Roast the dal in ghee patiently for best flavor.
Do not make the dal paste too smooth; keep it slightly coarse.
Add khoya or condensed milk for richness.
Garnish generously with dry fruits for a royal touch.
Why Try Chana Dal Halwa?
It’s an authentic chana dal halwa traditional mithai.
Naturally gluten free chana dal halwa.
Can be enjoyed as a dessert, festive sweet, or pudding.
Works as a winter special energy-rich dessert.
Perfect for chana dal halwa mithai gifting during festivals.
Interesting Facts
The Chana Dal Halwa Recipe is more than just a sweet dish—it is a part of Indian tradition, culture, and celebrations. Whether you prepare the chana dal halwa step by step for a festival like Diwali or Eid, or make a quick chana dal halwa recipe for a family gathering, its rich taste will always win hearts.
Try this homemade chana dal halwa recipe with ghee, khoya, and dry fruits, and experience the authentic flavors of Indian mithai. It’s not just a dessert, but a royal indulgence meant to be shared with loved ones.
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